Change of command ceremony welcomes new leader to 128th



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A change of command ceremony was held Sunday morning, July 14th at Milwaukee's 128th Air Refueling Wing.

"It gives that positive transfer of leadership from the old commander to the new commander. It’s a very ceremonial event for us," Wisconsin Air National Guard Captain John Capra said.

At Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport, Gov. Scott Walker was on hand Sunday as the 128th Air Refueling Wing of Wisconsin's Air National Guard conducted its change in command ceremony.

"We know on behalf of the men and women, the airmen and airwomen who are here today, you’re gonna continue to provide great leadership," Gov. Walker said.

After more than four years as the 128th Air Refueling Wing's commander, Colonel Edward Metzgar is heading for the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where he'll command a unit of the Air National Guard.

He is being replaced by Colonel Dan Yenchesky. 

"I’m very excited. We have a strong Air Refueling Wing. I grew up in the city of Milwaukee, so it’s a real honor to be back in my hometown," Colonel Yenchesky said.

Colonel Yenchesky says he's ready for this promotion, having spent the past 12 years in Wisconsin's Air National Guard, following 11 years of active duty.

"The unit achieved a record of excellence that is really unsurpassed in the National Guard, or even in the active duty Air Force, over Colonel Metzgar’s tenure. So, I have to continue that. I’m really building on the strongest of foundations," Colonel Yenchesky said.

Under Colonel Metzgar's four-and-a-half year command, the 128th Air Refueling Wing safely delivered more than 97 million pounds of fuel.